Pennsylvania is a state rich in culture, history, and scenic beauty. It does, however, also have a dark side that is hidden from most people.
In the northeastern part of the state, a once-thriving and prosperous town is now abandoned and in decline. This is the story of Centralia, an abandoned community that most people are unaware of.
The Development and Decline of Centralia
In 1866, Centralia was founded as a town for coal mining. It was named for the Centralia Mine, which is one of the biggest and most productive mines in the region. At its height, Centralia was home to more than 2,000 residents who engaged in a vibrant communal life that included social groups, churches, schools, and shops.
But when coal demand declined and mines shuttered in the 1950s, Centralia’s fortunes started to deteriorate. A
declining tax base and abandoned properties were left behind when many residents left the municipality in quest of better opportunities elsewhere. Less than 1,000 people lived in Centralia by 1962, and the town was facing a serious problem: an underground fire.
The Never-Ending Fire
Although the exact cause of the fire is still up for question, the most widely accepted theory is that scheduled rubbish burning at a dump site atop an abandoned coal mine caused it to start. The town’s system of shafts and tunnels was affected by the fire, which began in the coal seam below.
Authorities from the state and municipal governments made several attempts to extinguish the fire, but it persisted. The coal was consumed by the fire, creating sinkholes, dangerous gases, and fissures that released steam and smoke.
The health and safety of the remaining residents of Centralia, who had to cope with the fire’s aftermath on a daily basis, were seriously threatened by the fire. Some persons experienced headaches, nausea, and respiratory problems as a result of the fumes.
Others experienced erosion and subsidence-related damage to their homes and property.
Because they fell into the holes or suffocated from the smoke, some individuals lost their dogs and other animals in the fire.
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The Abandonment of Centralia
In 1984, when the fire became out of control and the town was designated as a disaster area, the federal government decided to relocate the population of Centralia.
The occupants were given the choice to accept the government’s offer to buy out their properties or to remain at their own peril.
After most residents decided to leave, Centralia was formally disbanded as a municipality in 1992. Only a small number of people stayed, refusing to cede their homes and land rights.
There are now very few buildings and structures left in Centralia, making it a ghost town. It is anticipated that the fire will continue to burn for another 250 years. Because it is considered unsafe and unlawful to enter, the town is frequently closed to tourists.
Nonetheless, a few inquisitive and daring individuals still frequent the region, especially the Graffiti Highway, a section of the old Route 61 that has been closed and graffitied by tourists.
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Centralia’s Legacy
Once a thriving village, Centralia is now forgotten and no longer in existence. This settlement was destroyed by an uncontrollable fire that was started by humans.
The community was abandoned by society and the government, but its loyal and rebellious residents remained. It is a terrible and enigmatic hamlet that serves as a warning and a lesson. Few people know the town of Centralia, but they ought to.